Valley Oaks expands dual language immersion program with new classes and curriculum updates

The Galt Joint Union Elementary School District (GJUESD) Board of Education convened on May 25, 2025, to discuss key updates regarding academic goals and the dual language immersion (DLI) program. The meeting focused on adjustments to the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) and the progress of the DLI initiative.

The first agenda item addressed revisions to Goal 1, which centers on academic focus. The board reported modifications to Metric 1, concerning district reading assessments. A new requirement was introduced, mandating that once a cohort achieves 80% proficiency, they must maintain that level. Additionally, Metric 2 was updated to replace the previous MAP math assessments with I Ready math assessments, aligning with the district's new math curriculum.

The board also discussed changes to Action Item 11 of LCAP Goal 1, which previously involved an alternative center at McCaffrey Middle School. Based on feedback and data analysis, the decision was made to hire a campus monitor instead, reflecting a shift in strategy to better meet student needs.

Moving to Goal 2, which focuses on social-emotional culture and climate, no immediate changes were proposed. The board noted that they had solicited feedback from staff and community members, receiving a notable 58 responses. A summary of this feedback will be presented at the upcoming June study session.

The meeting also included a report on the DLI program, presented by Laura Marquez and David Nelson, principals at Valley Oaks and Fair Sight, respectively. They outlined the program's vision, which emphasizes bilingualism, academic achievement, and socio-cultural competence. The DLI program follows a 90/10 model, where instruction begins predominantly in Spanish and gradually shifts to a 50/50 balance by sixth grade.

Marquez highlighted the importance of maintaining a consistent language allocation plan, detailing how instruction is divided between Spanish and English across different grades. The DLI program has seen significant growth, with full classes in kindergarten and first grade, and plans to add more classes in second grade. The board noted that the program is attracting students from outside the Valley Oaks area, indicating its expanding appeal.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the assessment results for DLI students, showing promising performance in reading assessments conducted in Spanish. The board aims to maintain a balanced classroom composition, with equal representation from English and Spanish-speaking households.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing academic performance and fostering a diverse, bilingual educational environment. The next steps include a special board meeting in June for a public hearing on the LCAP and budget, followed by a regular board meeting for approval.